Build Your Skills and Your Professional Network With a Tufts Online MSCS

Hope Rogan had two goals in pursuing the Tufts University online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS): enhancing her career prospects and doing something for herself. After earning an undergraduate degree in economics, Rogan began her professional career in administration. She had grown up around family businesses and admin just seemed a natural fit.

Eventually, Rogan realized that the traditional path wasn’t for her. At first, Rogan employed self-taught computer skills to create new ways to contribute to the family motorcycle dealership. It soon became apparent to her that she needed to uplevel her skills and expertise. That’s when she decided to pursue a master’s in computer science.

Growing up in Somerville, Massachusetts, Rogan had always wanted to attend Tufts University. She saw Tufts’ online MSCS program catering to working professionals as the ideal option. The flexible format combined with an interdisciplinary curriculum was perfect for someone who, like Rogan, wasn’t sure which specific field she wanted to pursue. She also loved the idea of joining the Tufts community. As she put it: “Obviously, there are resources all over the internet, so you can teach yourself how to code, you can do certain things, you can build items, you name it. However, at the end of the day, you need to network, you need to meet and talk to other people. That’s part of the reason I chose this program. It is online, but I’ve joined Discord servers and I reach out to people. We talk about things outside of school and you get to learn a lot about where people are in life, what their goals are, and different ways of approaching a problem that you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.”

The interview that follows explores further why Rogan chose Tufts, the benefits of the Tufts online MSCS, her experience in the program, and the learning outcomes she’s already achieved.

Please introduce yourself and share a bit about your background. 

I started with an undergraduate degree in economics and moved into an administrative role in my family’s business. I decided that path wasn’t for me, but I found ways to contribute using my self-taught tech skills. Eventually, I realized I needed to learn more and knew I wanted to move into a tech-based industry. Earning a master’s in computer science was naturally the next step to enhance my career path and do something for myself.

Growing up in Somerville, I always wanted to go to Tufts. When I found that Tufts was offering an online MSCS program catered toward working professionals, it was the ideal choice. Their interdisciplinary curriculum provides a good background for someone like me who doesn’t know exactly what field they want to enter. 

Can you share an example of something you learned in class that created an ‘aha’ moment? 

Although I haven’t graduated yet, I’ve already been able to apply what I’ve learned to my family’s business. We needed to replace an outdated website that wasn’t up to speed. While I used a provider to build the site, I was able to take all the skills I learned in my web programming class to make strategic decisions. Even from just that one class, I could navigate the process effectively and improve the quality of my work.

What specifically made you want to be a Tufts student? What specifically about Tufts drew you in? 

The biggest thing about Tufts for me is that not only is it known to have a very good computer science department, but it is also known to be inclusive. As a woman in computer science, you can be a minority. I knew if I came to Tufts, I would be accepted and have the resources I needed, and so far, it has been great. Everyone in the program has been wonderful. They really vet who they admit into the program, creating an environment where I feel comfortable. Tufts does a great job of fostering a strong student community. 

What has your experience been like in class with your peers, and what types of collaborative opportunities have you had throughout the program?

Part of the reason I chose this program was the opportunity to network and collaborate with others. This program, though online, offers plenty of opportunities to connect with peers. I’ve had conversations with classmates about their lives, goals, and different ways of approaching problems.

For example, during a final project where we had to build a webpage, I was set on using a specific programming language until someone suggested a different, easier approach that allowed for collaboration. Being able to exchange ideas and challenge yourself in a way that you wouldn’t have challenged yourself originally is really what I was looking for. It’s not just about writing your own code but figuring out how to integrate and work seamlessly with others. The process mirrors real-world experiences across industries where teamwork is essential.

There is a stigma that tech professionals work in their own zone, but that’s not true at Tufts. Everyone here wants to make friends and foster a community, which is so important for personal growth. Tufts has done a really good job of creating that environment. 

How important is it to learn the fundamentals in computer science? Why do you think building a strong foundation is important for your career?

Building a foundation is very important in this field because everything is interconnected. Understanding how different sectors—from backend systems to internet safety—work together helps you understand the bigger picture. With the foundational knowledge, you can dive deeper into specific areas that interest you and collaborate effectively with others in the field.

What are your next steps now that you’re working toward your degree? What are you interested in doing after graduation?

I want to pursue a career in software engineering and be able to do my job well, though I am still deciding what field. Initially, I just wanted to be a software engineer, but I have learned a lot, and that has exposed me to new fields. Associate Teaching Professor Ming Chow’s security course opened my eyes to how important and prominent that field is. Ultimately, I want to end up in a role where I am challenged every day, where I’m working with intelligent people, and I’m proud of what I’m doing.

What’s it been like to work with the faculty? What type of support, mentorship, or guidance have you received? 

Working with the Tufts faculty has been stellar. They’re all amazing. You can ask them a question; even if they don’t know the answer immediately, they’ll follow up with you later. Since I’m local, I’ve reached out to professors to meet in person and they’re always willing to give their time. They are passionate about teaching and genuinely care about their students and the work we produce. 

Can you talk about some of the courses or skills you’ve learned in the program that have helped inform your capstone idea and bring it to fruition?

All the courses I’ve taken have impacted my decisions. Before entering the program, I tried creating a single Python script, but it didn’t work. I had the idea but lacked the knowledge to bring it to life. I learned key skills, like threading, in the software engineering course. That knowledge helped me step back and envision what my capstone project would look like. I could plan the structures that I was going to use and understand how it was going to run. Now that I have that roadmap, I can build complete software, which I think is pretty cool.

What advice would you give to students considering the computer science program? 

My advice is to think carefully about your capstone project. Take the opportunity to challenge yourself and build something unique that reflects who you are. Whether you come into the program with an idea or develop one along the way, it’s a great chance to apply what you’ve learned. I didn’t know how to run a script when I entered the program. Now, I’m building a full software piece with a physical component that anyone can use. Nothing is too difficult—don’t let challenges limit you. Always be willing to push yourself and challenge yourself.

______________

The Tufts online MS in Computer Science program can enhance your skills and expertise in less than two years. Designed for individuals with a programming background, the curriculum equips you with advanced problem-solving abilities to tackle today’s complex digital challenges. You will learn from industry professionals at the forefront of research while rigorous coursework hones your technical expertise and creative thinking. Through collaborative, small online classes, you’ll build valuable connections with peers who share your passion for innovation.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Contact an enrollment advisor to discover how the Tufts online MSCS can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the tech industry.